The Humble Pork Pie

Do you live in the pork pie belt? The heart of the proud and ancient pork pie industry cuts a swathe through the Midlands from Stamford to the border with Wales, taking in Melton Mowbray on the way. The first recipe for a pork pie appeared in a cookery book at the court of Richard II as long ago as 1390. The ingredients have changed a great deal since then – you won’t find ginger, sugar and raisins in your pie anymore, and it is now safe to eat the crust – but the popularity of the pie has not waned. Pork pie consumption is, according to Tesco, our nation’s secret obsession. Research showed that over 400,000 pies are sold in their stores every week – but that nobody will admit to buying them!